If you are thinking of buying a washing machine, you must have been through the confusion of not knowing if you should go for a top-load or a front-load, what is the perfect capacity for your needs and family size, where and how would you fit it at its ideal place…etc.
You're lucky to land at eXtra's up-to-date knowledge hub. In this blog, you'll learn everything you should know before buying a washing machine, and you'll be able to choose the perfect fit for your home.
First things first, Semi-automatic or Fully-automatic?
1- Differences you need to know about Semi-automatic vs. Fully-automatic
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Semi-automatic, as the name suggests, it's semi-automatic, which means it does only part of the mission, even if it's the more significant part. Though semi-automatic washing machines can be outdated for most people now, they have some key features that are really interesting.
Pros
They're much cheaper than fully-automatic washers; they can be so handy and affordable even for limited budgets.
They are eco-friendly as they consume less water and energy than fully-automatic does.
They come in portable sizes that can fit even in finite spaces
They come in different colors, sizes, and capacities.
Cons
They require more effort. Since it's a 2-phase process, you must manually transfer the clothes into the dryer after washing.
They take longer time.
They lack a lot of washing programs.
They come only in a top-loading shape as they are two sides attached, one for washing and the other for spinning.
On the other hand, fully-automatic washing machines are the opposite of semi-automatic washers.
Fully-automatic machines
Pros
They have a variety of different options and programs.
You only need to add your laundry and the detergent, then push the button to start and wait for it until it's done; almost effortless.
It takes a shorter time.
And it comes in two types: Front-load and top-load washers. Find more about them below.
Cons
They are much more costly compared to semi-automatic machines.
They consume more energy and water.
High maintenance cost compared to the semi-automatic.
2- Front-load vs. Top-load Washing Machines
Top-loading  | Front-loading  |
Easy usage
| Cleaning quality Front-loading machines clean the soil and stains better than top-loading washers due to the gravity causing the clothes to knock into and scrub one another. |
Mid-Cycle eXtras Suppose you have a lot on your plate and always remember that you had to wash a particular item after already starting the washing cycle. In that case, you can easily open the washer's door and add the forgotten clothes. | Less space needed Front-load machines can be stacked with dryers in a compact area. |
Lifespan Top-loading washers have a longer lifespan of an average of 14 years. | Lifespan Front-loading has a lifespan of an average of 11 years. |
Easier maintenance Top-loading washing machines are easier to maintain and need less maintenance. | More maintenance Front-loading washing machines' most significant problem is that, over time, mold can build up around the door, which requires more maintenance than top loaders. |
Better distribution Top-loaders are better at distributing the softeners on clothes. | Large items Front-loading washers can be better at washing large-size items such as pillows as they can fully immerse in water. |
Water Consumption High-efficiency (HE) Impellers consume around 19 gals of water/load, while the standard (Agitator) consumes around 41 gals of water/load. | Water Consumption Water consumption is usually around 13 gal of water/load. |
Budget-friendly If you have a tight budget and need a washer with a long lifespan, less maintenance, and good capacity and programs, top-load washing machines can be your best companion. | Higher-budget Front-loading washing machines are of a bit higher budget as they are more efficient and environmentally friendly than top-loading washing machines. |
Types 1- Top-loading washing machines with agitators: An agitator is a mechanism within a washer that creates motion by shaking and forcing water through the machine, leading to a vibrating washing machine, yet it creates friction against the clothes to give them a better clean. 2- Top-loading washing machines without agitators (Impeller) typically wash more quickly. They are also known as high-efficiency top-load washing machines, which clean better, can clean more clothes at once, and use less water. | Energy consumption Front loaders are usually energy savers as they consume less electricity than Top loaders do. |
Washing cycle duration Top-loading washing machines take shorter wash times in general. | Spin speed
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Since you've learned all the differences between Top and front-load washing machines and whether to get a semi-automatic or a fully automatic, you can check a wide range of varieties on eXtra website here.
But before you go, there is more to know and base your decision on.
It's time to decide on the capacity you need.
3- How to choose the perfect capacity for your laundry
The washing machine's capacity typically ranges between 5 kg and 10 kg, but how do you know which will suit your needs perfectly? Considering that the higher the degree, the more water and power are needed for it.
The table below will be your guide for the best capacity choice.
Family Type | Members | Recommended Load (or Capacity) | Approximate Load |
Individual/Couple | Bachelor or couples | 5-6 Kgs | 2x Small towels 2x Pillowcases 1x Bedsheet 2x Shirts 2x Adult Jeans |
Small Family | 3-4 small family | 6-7 Kgs | 2x Small Towels 1x Child Jeans 2x Pillowcases 1x Bedsheet 3x Shirts 2x Adult Jeans 3x Dish Towels |
Large Family | 5-6 | 7-8 Kgs | 3x Small Towels 3x Pillowcases 2x Bedsheet 3x Shirts 3x Adult Jeans 3x Dish Towels |
Very Large Family | More than 6 ( Large family) | 9 Kgs+ | 3x Small Towels 6x Pillowcases 3x Bedsheet 4x Shirts 3x Adult Jeans 4x Dish Towels |
4- eXtra Comfort features for a smart life!
Again and as always, before you get drifted with all the fabulous features and technologies, make sure to set priorities according to your budget and then decide if you can add more features.
Automatic Dispensers: This feature is designed to dispense detergent, bleach, and fabric softener at the right time.
Automatic Temperature Control: Rather than simply mixing hot and cold water in preset proportions, auto temperature control adjusts the water to the optimal temperature for the selected setting.
Extra Rinse Cycle: All types of washing machines use a lot less water than they once did. Most new washers' tests have an extra rinse cycle. It can help if your skin is sensitive to the detergent residue and can help wash away pet hair and other stubborn messes.
Stainless Steel Tub: Most washer tests now have a stainless tub. It can withstand higher spin speeds than plastic, extracting more water and cutting dryer time.
End-of-Cycle Signal: A snappy tune or string of beeps alerts you that your washing machine is over.
RPM: The higher the RPM, the faster it rotates to remove water from clothes.
Noise levels during washing and spinning (dB): The washing machine energy rating label will also provide two operating noise levels: one for the washing cycle and the other for the spinning cycle. These levels can range from 40 dB (a quiet library) to 80 dB (a ringing house phone).
Fuzzy Logic: This feature automatically manages the wash cycle, water temperature, spin, and rinse speed.
Quick Wash: It gives the option to wash the laundry quickly. Depending on the machine, it can wash and dry clothes in 15 to 30 minutes.
Bubble Wash: Bubbles help to go deeper into the fabric for a better quality wash.
LCD/LED Display: Some machines have displays that convey information such as the time left till cycle completion and the washing stage.
Time Delay: Time delay is an excellent feature for those who want to customize their washing time. It helps delay washing up to 0 to 24 hours.
5- Energy efficiency label and tips to save energy
Before buying a washing machine, you should look at its energy efficiency label, as in the picture above.
Washing machines are now labeled with energy class ratings ranging from A+++ (the most efficient) to D (the least efficient). The A+++ washing machine will be the most cost-effective and eco-friendly option, and its energy consumption is calculated based on 220 cycles of a mix of full and partial loads of cotton at 40°C and 60°C. This means that it is assumed that the washing machine is used at least four times a week.
Annual water consumption (L/year)
As with energy consumption, the yearly estimated water consumption given on washing machine energy rating labels is based on 220 cycles of a combination of full and partial cotton loads at 40 °C and 60 °C. This will range from roughly 8,000 to 12,000 liters per year.
Tips to save more energy during the washing cycle
Wash clothes on the shortest cycle using the "quick wash" feature that's practical for your needs. That means less water, heated to a lower temperature, and a shorter spin cycle to save water and energy.
Use a cold water or 30°C cycle where possible. It's only for particularly dirty clothes, bad stains, or underwear that you are likely to need warmer temperatures.
Soak heavily soiled items before washing, and rub collars or other stains with household soap.
Wait until you have a full load before washing.
Similarly, bath sheets are typically heavy-weight cotton and excessively large, so consider choosing standard lightweight bath towels to save on energy.
Use a high spin speed where possible; so clothes come out of the washing machine almost dry with little need for tumble drying.
Include occasional hot washes if you mainly do low-temperature ones. That will eliminate bacteria and prevent the build-up of odors in your machine.
Now that you have decided on a washing machine already. Let's size it up in the space you have got!
6- The Ideal Place For Your Washing Machine
Before going deep into the size-up and installation tips, there's something that you need to consider.
Depending on volume and capacity, top-load washers can be as much as 8 inches taller than front-load washers. Front-load washers are up to 8 inches deeper (front to back) than top-load washers to account for the door and related mechanisms.
Washing machines' width is usually a constant 27 inches, but bigger capacities can result in 2-3 wider machines.
Measuring steps
Measure the space you have left for the washing machine, and consider at least 6 inches behind the washer for the water hookups and pipes.
Allow 1 inch between the washing machine and the dryer if you add one.
Consider having a drain connection for wastewater and a clear passageway.
Consider the hot and cold water lines, preferably as close as 3 feet from your washer's hookups.
If you plan to add a pedestal to the washing machine, you have to keep in mind that it will add to the washer's height, which may affect any cabinets that may be present above the unit.
Time to buy; you can find all options and brands on eXtra website. Just click the following button.